The waist length Beta SL is an excellent all-around GORE-TEX Paclite jacket that is ideal for hikers or those who require lightweight and packable storm protection without all of our Ascent specific features. With a trim fitting Drop Hood and lowered hand-warmer pockets, this piece is a great choice if climbing helmets and harnesses aren't in the backpack.

I LOVE this jacket! It was given to me as a gift. I don't think I would have thought to spend this kind of money on a rain jacket -- but for anyone that is an avid user of a rain jacket it is worth the money to invest in GORE-TEX. It washes well, wears well and is AWESOME. Not only is this jacket warrantied by ARC'TERYX, but also GORE-TEX. And GORE-TEX's modo is "Guaranteed to keep you dry" Enough said...

Plus from experience, GORE-TEX will last longer than the zippers and is not effected by bug spray and other chemicals hitting the jacket -- like a "treated" rain shell would be.

This jacket in particular, happens to be one of the better buys for a nice quality, good fitting rain shell for women. I would highly recommend it, and will never own another rain shell that is not GORE-TEX.